The Los Angeles-based company that supplied the equipment specialises in Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) machines - used to help angina patients reduce shortness of breath, chest pains or stabilise blood pressure.

Comedian Dick Gregory, a Jackson family friend, says the proceedings are taking their toll.

"When you are under stress for 12 months, for 18 months, no one can understand but the person going through it.

"He was so dehydrated I thought he was developing kidney stones. You can't drink enough water while you are standing in court."

It is simply not true that he is falling apart

Michael Jackson's spokeswoman Raymone Bain

Mr Gregory said Mr Jackson visited Cottage Hospital on Thursday to procure IV fluids but hospital officials would not confirm details of the visit.

Meanwhile, Ms Bain was quick to dispel any notion that Mr Jackson could be seeking sympathy.

"Michael Jackson is stronger than people think," she told Fox News.

His back had been "bothering him all week" she said, but he was determined to sit through all the court sessions.

"It is simply not true that he is falling apart," she added. "A lot of those personal views are a distraction."

Mr Jackson was taken to hospital as the jury considered their verdict

Jackson supporters gathered at the gates of Neverland were urging the singer to "stay strong" as the case reaches its final phase.

Fans have been painting signs, getting banners ready and have been tying strips of material to their car aerials.

Hundreds are expected to be outside the courthouse in Santa Maria when Mr Jackson is given notice that a verdict has been reached.

The judge has instructed Mr Jackson to stay within an hour of the town. He has also allowed an audio feed of the verdict to be transmitted.

In a further sign of support for the singer, the Reverend Jesse Jackson said he had arrived in the area to meet and pray with him.